Lexus confirms new mini SUV

Exclusive: Japanese brand to show off new small SUV concept at the 2013 Tokyo motor show.

15 January 2013Matt Campbell

Lexus plans to show a new small SUV - that will sit under the current RX (pictured) - at this year's Tokyo motor show.

Lexus is readying itself for battle against the Audi Q5, BMW X3 and Range Rover Evoque with a new small SUV.

Drive learnt of the news at the Detroit motor show, as Kazuo Ohara, executive vice president of Lexus International, told of an SUV smaller than the current RX which is currently under "serious consideration".

Specific details are still under wraps, but Ohara told Drive that the new SUV is a crucial model if the brand intends to increase its growth worldwide.

"Yes, we believe there is a need," Kazuo says. "Smaller than the RX ? a smaller SUV is going to be a promising option for the global market."

"So we are looking into it," he says.

When asked whether the car would be based off the same platform as the boxy, urban-focused CT200h hatchback, Ohara replied with caution.

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"It's still secret, but we are seriously considering [offering a car such as this]."

Kazuo confirmed that a concept vehicle will be uncovered this year, "maybe around Tokyo [motor show]", which falls in late November.

Possibilities for the next-generation small SUV from Lexus could include a revamped version of the new RAV4 from its parent company Toyota, or an all-new model that is expected to have edgy styling like the just-revealed IS sedan.

The aforementioned rivals have seen huge sales success in Australia, as well as globally. The Audi Q5 was the top seller in the segment last year, with 2830 sales in Australia, ahead of the BMW X3 (2500) and the Range Rover Evoque (2496).